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Naked
When an award-winning comedian performs at gunpoint in South Africa and lives to tell the tale, you know it's going to be an interesting one. Pranks both childish and reckless, nights of wild partying, a career repeatedly built and torn down, a roller-coaster love life, and risks you and I wouldn't dare to Papa CJ is able to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. And then destroy it. Only to rise again like a phoenix. As Papa CJ lays bare his life, from the streets of Calcutta to the University of Oxford and stages across the world, you will bask in nostalgia, laugh your guts out, feel your heart ache, and find a new lens with which to look at your own life. A lens that allows you, like Papa CJ, to always see the positive. And of course, the funny. Seize it. Enjoy it!
- GenresBiography
256 pages, Paperback
Published December 16, 2019
16 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 10, 2020
So this is my first review. If you ever think about starting autobiographies but think that they are boring. Give this book a try. It'll change your mind definitely. Honestly it's the most hillarious autobiography I have ever came across. The language the incidence all were so exciting. Moreover this book is full of pun and punches so ever need a good laugh. Go ahead this book is totally worth a read.
January 30, 2020
I didn’t quite know what to expect from this memoir, Naked by Papa CJ. I knew very little about Papa CJ prior to reading this memoir, only having seen one of his stand-up videos on Youtube (that too from suggestions from what I was watching). After reading this book and before writing this review, I watched almost all the videos (more than 5o videos from 82) available on Papa CJ's Youtube Channel.
I’m a complete sucker for memoirs narrated by the authors themselves. This book is no exception. Papa CJ is absolutely hysterical with his self-deprecating sense of humor while still managing to be completely empowering as well as his candid talks about his life and ethnicity are totally amusing.
"You see, you can't afford to mess with us Indians. You may have ruled us for 200 years... But you didn't expect us to follow you back, did you!" - Papa CJ on The World Stands Up, 2005
You can’t help but love that honesty. It’s straightforward and sincere and only helps to make us feel a little bit better about ourselves. It is what it is, people. Move along.
While Papa CJ is widely known for being a Comedian, this book, Naked by Papa CJ, isn’t all fun and games. I would have adored this book from composed of nothing but only his side-splitting humor, I can understand why he took the opportunity to voice his opinions and include a few more insightful notes. And while he does clarify at the very beginning why he wrote this book (just for the prefix "bestseller author" before his name), there are still many lessons that can be learned from his words. He discusses in depth the amount of time and energy he spent to build his career from the ground up, to always stand up for who you are and what you believe in, and to learn to roll with the punches life throws at you with the determination that you will eventually come out of this.
The types of stories he shares though are widely varied going from hilarious recollections of his childhood to his recent stand up gigs. But on the opposite end of the spectrum, he tells us tragic stories about the broken relationship, about his regrets, own personal story of choosing stand up comedy as a career after graduating from Oxford University. While those entries aren’t funny, it’s a part of what makes Papa CJ.
He knocked it out of the park with his narration and I do so hope he writes more in the future. This book is all about Papa CJ and it glimpses most important times in his life, from childhood to adulthood. I definitely recommend Naked by Papa CJ to his fans and to those who—like me—didn’t really know who he was.
I’m a complete sucker for memoirs narrated by the authors themselves. This book is no exception. Papa CJ is absolutely hysterical with his self-deprecating sense of humor while still managing to be completely empowering as well as his candid talks about his life and ethnicity are totally amusing.
"You see, you can't afford to mess with us Indians. You may have ruled us for 200 years... But you didn't expect us to follow you back, did you!" - Papa CJ on The World Stands Up, 2005
You can’t help but love that honesty. It’s straightforward and sincere and only helps to make us feel a little bit better about ourselves. It is what it is, people. Move along.
While Papa CJ is widely known for being a Comedian, this book, Naked by Papa CJ, isn’t all fun and games. I would have adored this book from composed of nothing but only his side-splitting humor, I can understand why he took the opportunity to voice his opinions and include a few more insightful notes. And while he does clarify at the very beginning why he wrote this book (just for the prefix "bestseller author" before his name), there are still many lessons that can be learned from his words. He discusses in depth the amount of time and energy he spent to build his career from the ground up, to always stand up for who you are and what you believe in, and to learn to roll with the punches life throws at you with the determination that you will eventually come out of this.
The types of stories he shares though are widely varied going from hilarious recollections of his childhood to his recent stand up gigs. But on the opposite end of the spectrum, he tells us tragic stories about the broken relationship, about his regrets, own personal story of choosing stand up comedy as a career after graduating from Oxford University. While those entries aren’t funny, it’s a part of what makes Papa CJ.
He knocked it out of the park with his narration and I do so hope he writes more in the future. This book is all about Papa CJ and it glimpses most important times in his life, from childhood to adulthood. I definitely recommend Naked by Papa CJ to his fans and to those who—like me—didn’t really know who he was.
December 21, 2019
Naked is one of those rare books that make you laugh, or LOL as you read. This story has emotion, drama, tragedy and through all of it, there’s comedy! It is EPIC!
(LOL and EPIC being referenced from the book)
If you've ever seen him perform, you can hear CJ read out the book for you, inside your head! And he stays there for a while commenting on everything you do for a while!
The book transports you to the front row seats in his show, which means you will be roasted non-stop! Good luck trying to look at yourself, naked in the mirror after you've read the book!
The story of the man who built and nurtured an industry in India and started a revolution! It's an inspiring journey of a man who wanted to do something different and meaningful and exciting with his life.
It shows how one can live his life to the fullest and leave a massive impact on people and society. From calling out rude celebrities during the "day" ;) to getting college timings changed by night (Manipal reference here).
Imagine living your life with specific rules which as a child were ingrained into you, only to realise that not only are they meant to be broken, they aren't real. CJ shows how it's done by baring himself on stage and through words.
For those struggling to find their creative voice, this book is helping me discover my own by seeing how CJ discovered and rediscovered his and continues to do so!
If you've ever wished life should have come with an instruction manual, here it is!
It shows how it doesn't have to be serious and boring. How having fun is equally, if not more important than everything else.
CJ shows how pain can be turned into fuel to power your journey. He is the embodiment of the words, pain is inevitable, suffering is optional, and laughing through it all is necessary!
Looking forward to more from CJ!
As the book ends, you feel the familiar pang of longing for more. Similar to how you feel when his show ends.
Here's hoping this will be the first in a series of several books by CJ.
(LOL and EPIC being referenced from the book)
If you've ever seen him perform, you can hear CJ read out the book for you, inside your head! And he stays there for a while commenting on everything you do for a while!
The book transports you to the front row seats in his show, which means you will be roasted non-stop! Good luck trying to look at yourself, naked in the mirror after you've read the book!
The story of the man who built and nurtured an industry in India and started a revolution! It's an inspiring journey of a man who wanted to do something different and meaningful and exciting with his life.
It shows how one can live his life to the fullest and leave a massive impact on people and society. From calling out rude celebrities during the "day" ;) to getting college timings changed by night (Manipal reference here).
Imagine living your life with specific rules which as a child were ingrained into you, only to realise that not only are they meant to be broken, they aren't real. CJ shows how it's done by baring himself on stage and through words.
For those struggling to find their creative voice, this book is helping me discover my own by seeing how CJ discovered and rediscovered his and continues to do so!
If you've ever wished life should have come with an instruction manual, here it is!
It shows how it doesn't have to be serious and boring. How having fun is equally, if not more important than everything else.
CJ shows how pain can be turned into fuel to power your journey. He is the embodiment of the words, pain is inevitable, suffering is optional, and laughing through it all is necessary!
Looking forward to more from CJ!
As the book ends, you feel the familiar pang of longing for more. Similar to how you feel when his show ends.
Here's hoping this will be the first in a series of several books by CJ.
January 20, 2020
Laughter, tears, fun, hard work, life......a truly inspiring book by Papa CJ.
Wanted to read this book since I had attended two brilliant stand up comedy shows by the author , ‘Naked’ not being one of them.
The book is an easy read. The author has a way of keeping one glued, as he takes the reader through his journey of life. Laughed & cried many a times and related to so many anecdotes in the book. It brought back many memories of my growing up years which had gotten lost somewhere. Am truly grateful to the author from bringing them back.
Requires guts to bear one’s life, thoughts, emotions and vulnerabilities, even more so when you are in the limelight & still have more than half your life still to live.
A motivational book too as one realises how much hard work has gone into getting Papa CJ where he has reached and the effort involved in pioneering this creative industry of stand up comedy in our country.
Will highly recommend this book to readers. Already looking forward to reading Papa CJ’s next book
Wanted to read this book since I had attended two brilliant stand up comedy shows by the author , ‘Naked’ not being one of them.
The book is an easy read. The author has a way of keeping one glued, as he takes the reader through his journey of life. Laughed & cried many a times and related to so many anecdotes in the book. It brought back many memories of my growing up years which had gotten lost somewhere. Am truly grateful to the author from bringing them back.
Requires guts to bear one’s life, thoughts, emotions and vulnerabilities, even more so when you are in the limelight & still have more than half your life still to live.
A motivational book too as one realises how much hard work has gone into getting Papa CJ where he has reached and the effort involved in pioneering this creative industry of stand up comedy in our country.
Will highly recommend this book to readers. Already looking forward to reading Papa CJ’s next book
February 18, 2020
The best thing about reading Naked is that it's not like reading a book at all. It's rather like sitting down comfortably with the author as he opens up to you, showing you a vulnerable little boy hiding behind a comic mask. And that's how he creeps into your heart. Through all the honesty in those pages, shining bravely through the liberal sprinkling of humour.
It takes a lot of courage to bare your soul, knowing that you will be judged for your choices. Moreover, being able to laugh and make others laugh through it all. Am sure the process was therapeutic for Papa CJ, but so it is for readers who are inspired to question the unnecessary baggage of ego that one drags along through life.
And yes, sometimes it takes a funny man to show you that one of the greatest but most difficult things a parent can do is sometimes to just let go...
It takes a lot of courage to bare your soul, knowing that you will be judged for your choices. Moreover, being able to laugh and make others laugh through it all. Am sure the process was therapeutic for Papa CJ, but so it is for readers who are inspired to question the unnecessary baggage of ego that one drags along through life.
And yes, sometimes it takes a funny man to show you that one of the greatest but most difficult things a parent can do is sometimes to just let go...
January 15, 2020
I though of half a dozen things to say in this post when I was reading the book Naked by @papacj ... I'm struggling to find words to do the book justice now... did you know that I hadn't heard of this person before I happened across him in Bookworm? and I'm vaguely familiar with the Indian Standup Comedy scene because my human watched videos quite frequently... the book is funny and witty (which I expected)... and it strips the author naked, exposing everything from insecurities to failures to feelings (yup guys have those too)... after the very 'vanilla' Becoming by Michelle Obama, this brutally honest autobiography was indeed a joy to read...
January 16, 2020
It's funny and easy going, like enjoying a stand-up comedy. Go for it, if you are free tonight.
January 1, 2020
I bought this book onroute my flight from Delhi to Dharamshala.
What I had not anticipated was how I would be laughing my head off and crying the next minute while reading this gem on a 90 minute flight. I think my
co-passengers pretty much thought I was having a meltdown!
Naked proved to be the perfect travel companion! It is witty, considerate and sensitive. This book made me want to shake the author's hand and give him a hug, for he reminded me of all the things I am grateful for -friends and family who hold you up when you are down, your own resilience when shit hits the roof and an open heart to embrace whatever comes along!
So thank you for being an almost perfect read for the year end and reminding me what to carry forward in the new year ! Cheers
What I had not anticipated was how I would be laughing my head off and crying the next minute while reading this gem on a 90 minute flight. I think my
co-passengers pretty much thought I was having a meltdown!
Naked proved to be the perfect travel companion! It is witty, considerate and sensitive. This book made me want to shake the author's hand and give him a hug, for he reminded me of all the things I am grateful for -friends and family who hold you up when you are down, your own resilience when shit hits the roof and an open heart to embrace whatever comes along!
So thank you for being an almost perfect read for the year end and reminding me what to carry forward in the new year ! Cheers
December 30, 2019
As you go on reading 'Naked', you begin to be filled with pleasure, laughter, admiration and slow fear; fear of failure of this remarkable man and his appetite for monumental risks. And finally when you see him emerging through the haze you feel victorious too. A wonderfully well written autobiography, marked by brilliant self appraisal and a true lesson in humility, courage and steely determination. Sense of humour is truly what you expect from Papa CJ. Very bright future ahead, for a man spreading happiness and smiles. Waiting for more from Papa CJ, the artist and the writer.
December 20, 2019
There's much more to it than meets the NAKED eye!
Happiness, like the glowing candle, needs a helping hand to grow. And who better than Papa CJ who doesn't just practise but preaches his way as well. He has traversed the world and gladly returned home, because that is where it matters most. Human biology educates and amuses us while human chemistry is the fevikwik to hold it all together. The ethos of our Calcutta, value for values and the tunnel-ending light seeking mindset are some of his life's highlights. The chapters 'Ground zero' & 'Humility by rotation' shall remain with me for long and the concluding para of 'A knock on the door' will resonate with every dad (including future ones).
Muchos gracias for the wonderful book. Maturity fits in anywhere in spite of belonging nowhere. Already looking forward to your next one. As promised, during reading and after, I ran into laughter, embraced joy and renewed my membership with courageous integrity. Keep impacting lives with your work. Home run was hit with - Not a car has been made that has the fuel efficiency of the heart! God bless 🙏
Happiness, like the glowing candle, needs a helping hand to grow. And who better than Papa CJ who doesn't just practise but preaches his way as well. He has traversed the world and gladly returned home, because that is where it matters most. Human biology educates and amuses us while human chemistry is the fevikwik to hold it all together. The ethos of our Calcutta, value for values and the tunnel-ending light seeking mindset are some of his life's highlights. The chapters 'Ground zero' & 'Humility by rotation' shall remain with me for long and the concluding para of 'A knock on the door' will resonate with every dad (including future ones).
Muchos gracias for the wonderful book. Maturity fits in anywhere in spite of belonging nowhere. Already looking forward to your next one. As promised, during reading and after, I ran into laughter, embraced joy and renewed my membership with courageous integrity. Keep impacting lives with your work. Home run was hit with - Not a car has been made that has the fuel efficiency of the heart! God bless 🙏
December 22, 2019
Funny , Emotional and Positive.
Simply Wonderful.. while reading the book I felt as if the author was by my side having a conversation with me while walking through a passage, a passage that unfolded his life.. his memories .. his experiences.. JUST PERFECT. Loved the simplicity. Some incidents mentioned leave you feeling nostalgic and make you instantly react -“oh yes, I did that too”. And every such moment kept me glued to the book, with a constant smile. Beautiful mix of emotions.
Book is Highly recommend ONLY for:
- People who want to motivate themselves to start reading again (like me) or start cultivating the reading habit.
- People who love reading. If you have not read it yet, you are missing something.. just saying.
- People who do not enjoy reading but may want to try just one book. This is the one!
Happy Reading !!
Simply Wonderful.. while reading the book I felt as if the author was by my side having a conversation with me while walking through a passage, a passage that unfolded his life.. his memories .. his experiences.. JUST PERFECT. Loved the simplicity. Some incidents mentioned leave you feeling nostalgic and make you instantly react -“oh yes, I did that too”. And every such moment kept me glued to the book, with a constant smile. Beautiful mix of emotions.
Book is Highly recommend ONLY for:
- People who want to motivate themselves to start reading again (like me) or start cultivating the reading habit.
- People who love reading. If you have not read it yet, you are missing something.. just saying.
- People who do not enjoy reading but may want to try just one book. This is the one!
Happy Reading !!
December 19, 2019
OK listen up. I've never plugged a book as much as I want to this.
I haven't finished a book in one sitting in over two years. I couldn't put this down. If you grew up in a big-small town in the 80's, you will relate at a very visceral level to this. If you went to boarding school, the nostalgia will keep you hooked. If you've ever wanted to be inspired by a real life hustle and it's eventual rewards, this book is for you.
PapaCJ takes you on a ride that's achingly nostalgic, instantly relatable, eye wateringly funny as well as lacrimal in just the right places. When you least expect it, you'll be struck by a goosebump moment !
Growing up in Calcutta and then boarding school I had so many hark- backs but equally gripping was his stint in London and the beginnings of his crazy comedic journey.
The very human side of someone who's done the grind and gotten to where he is and the legacy he's building as a maverick in his field makes for fantastic reading.
Go get this roller-coaster of a story!
I haven't finished a book in one sitting in over two years. I couldn't put this down. If you grew up in a big-small town in the 80's, you will relate at a very visceral level to this. If you went to boarding school, the nostalgia will keep you hooked. If you've ever wanted to be inspired by a real life hustle and it's eventual rewards, this book is for you.
PapaCJ takes you on a ride that's achingly nostalgic, instantly relatable, eye wateringly funny as well as lacrimal in just the right places. When you least expect it, you'll be struck by a goosebump moment !
Growing up in Calcutta and then boarding school I had so many hark- backs but equally gripping was his stint in London and the beginnings of his crazy comedic journey.
The very human side of someone who's done the grind and gotten to where he is and the legacy he's building as a maverick in his field makes for fantastic reading.
Go get this roller-coaster of a story!
December 20, 2019
I finished reading this book in one sitting. There's just so much I loved about it. The stories Papa CJ shares are so funny, moving, real and very honest!
There is such seamless transition from chapter to chapter I couldn't wait to flip and get to know what happenes next. I was on this journey with him and could feel the emotions in the moments. I was reading and laughing and wiping away tears. It really moved me.
At the end of the book I felt like I had started on a journey to get to know this comedian who I really admire for being humble and kind, he's that and so much more! I feel like I've lived those times and felt like I was departing with a friend as I closed the book. I definitely recommend this, please go get your copy. You won't be disappointed!
There is such seamless transition from chapter to chapter I couldn't wait to flip and get to know what happenes next. I was on this journey with him and could feel the emotions in the moments. I was reading and laughing and wiping away tears. It really moved me.
At the end of the book I felt like I had started on a journey to get to know this comedian who I really admire for being humble and kind, he's that and so much more! I feel like I've lived those times and felt like I was departing with a friend as I closed the book. I definitely recommend this, please go get your copy. You won't be disappointed!
December 23, 2019
Just finished reading your book and i must say its a real page turner . You have laid yourself bare on the book and it takes a lot of guts to do that . It had me laughing, it had got me teary eyed , it had everything in it ...thanks for giving the world this personal insight in your life .. u absolutely killed it man
December 19, 2019
As someone who used to be a voracious reader, my habit of reading had diminished over the last few years as not many books had the power to engage me till the end. But this book was a refreshing surprise, it was so hard to put down that I almost read it in one go. I don’t remember the last time I laughed out loud so loudly while reading a book! Some of the passages were so moving and filled with so much humility and integrity that it brought tears in my eyes. This book is not just an engaging read, but also a valuable guide to learn so much and imbibe the same in a non preachy, subtle yet super effective manner.
December 19, 2019
Rarely do you come across a book that is relatable to people from various generations, excerpts from this book made my heart wrench in pain at the raw emotions laid out in front of me. The memories of the writer were expressed so candidly that it made me nostalgic for a time which is so relatable to a lot of people. Truly there is a god who gives us pain and joy, and I bless the author that his share of pain is over for he has provided the world with laughter and goodness with a noble intention. This book is a beautiful mix of emotions which will make you laugh, cry and then laugh again...
February 5, 2020
I read this book last month while I was on vacation. Every morning while I was excited to see new places, I found myself more eagerly waiting for the evening, when I can get back to reading the book. Yet I did NOT want to write a review. Here's why.
Last night’s conversation with my husband.
Husband (who is an avid reader): “Hey you never told me how did you liked that book, Naked”
I: “Oh I don’t want to talk about it”
Husband: “ huh? I thought you read it till the end”
I: “Yes I did”
Husband: “I don’t get it. In the last ten years of our marriage, this is probably the first book I have seen you read till the end”
I nodded in affirmation
Husband: “So can’t be that bad, that you don’t want to talk about it””
I: “I am trying to forget all about it”
Husband (not sure if he should push it any further): “Oh ok. I am sorry you feel that way”.
I: (frustrated): “oh, you don’t get it do you? I am trying to forget it so I can read it all over again and enjoy it as much”
Enough said!
On a more serious note, among other things, what stands out to me is how ‘balanced’ this book is. I am not sure if the credit goes to the author or to the editor, but it is commendable.
The moment you start feeling even slightly annoyed by the author bragging about his successes, next para will hit you with an elaborate account of a big fat failure - almost with the same pride and honesty, if not more. You read a series of serious confessions that begin to drag you down and then boom! there is a humorous incident narrated with a punch line that will have you rolling on the floor. Every fun story has a hidden lesson (not that fun and lessons are opposites). For every account of receiving from the society/community, there is a counter of how the author pays it forward. And for every chapter where you think he lucked out, you find many encounters that tug at your heart.
I have never read anything so honest, so bare, so naked. A big thanks for all the moments when I cried with you, laughed out loud till I embarrassed myself, had goosebumps or had my heart pounding out of my chest.
Thank you Papa CJ.
I sincerely, sincerely wish you get that ‘knock on that door’ soon…today.
March 22, 2020
My mind has been rather restless for many months now, which has prevented me from reading as much as I used to. For someone who used to devour a book a day, it was awful to realise that I could barely get myself to read a whole chapter. This, even as I had the capacity to read and review articles (often long and tedious) every day, because my work required me to do so. Reading / lack thereof became the collateral damage of my work, in a sense. So I thought it best to get back to active reading (and every day) by picking up what I thought might be a "light book"; a little over a month ago, this is what I chose to buy off the shelves at an airport. I took my own time to read it, even though it's the sort of book you can finish in a day if you aren't doing much else. Some books, especially of the autobiographical variety, get worse as they progress - often because they are self-congratulatory and pompous, but 'Naked' keeps getting better with each chapter. The best part is, Papa CJ writes in a conversational style and does not claim to be a literary genius. His writing is easy on the eyes and unpretentious, and his ability to see himself sans love goggles, and introspect, is laudable. No, I didn't like ALL the jokes, and no, the book doesn't ONLY have jokes. And for the record, comedians are people too. :) It's peppered with the good, the bad, the ugly from Papa CJ's life. It's more slice of life, less autobiography, I'd say. And here's what I never thought I'd say about this book: I actually teared up at the end: And no, not just because I'm a sappy old dinosaur. Although I'm also that. And no, not even because the jokes were so bad. 😆
While he claims to be no "writer" or "author", Papa CJ has a strong voice - and even as he strips off many layers and lays his soul bare by the end of the book, he also adds many more layers to himself.
It's worth a read guys, but don't approach it from the point of view of "literary fiction" or a "classic" or anything else your Umberto Eco-d mind has trained you for. Just enjoy it. (Or not). Fin.
While he claims to be no "writer" or "author", Papa CJ has a strong voice - and even as he strips off many layers and lays his soul bare by the end of the book, he also adds many more layers to himself.
It's worth a read guys, but don't approach it from the point of view of "literary fiction" or a "classic" or anything else your Umberto Eco-d mind has trained you for. Just enjoy it. (Or not). Fin.
February 15, 2021
The book covers four decades of Papa CJ’s life. Trust me, it is a ride to be pillion on.
If not videos or performing live, have you even seen him in pictures? He always have his chin up with a contagious smile and the book tells you the reason behind. If life is to live intentionally then he has been doing it pretty well, from taking conscious decisions to wearing mistakes on sleeve. He demonstrated the example of owning life courageously.
Not only he got his career built carrying out gigs unceasingly but also kindly constructed Indian comedy scene by laying brick upon brick. I have heard the name, Papa CJ, from myriad of comedians for his generosity.
The book starts with his first ever performed five minute bit comprising punches after punches. There itself you redeem your money to make rest of the book complimentary. I read that bit wondering he has got an innate thing for comedy. Remember when Seinfeld re-performed his first bit?
Lucky for me that Papa CJ did write his special in a book format. I am quite asocial thereby books are my company and he wrote in such conversational style that you’d feel his presence. Moreover, if you’re following his comedy then you’d be listening his voice in your mind with accurate pauses.
I don’t want to give away much but this book is written by a humorous guy about his eventful life containing disparate emotions.
The stories I bookmarked are… his parents marriage, coming of N into his life, Calcutta days, room no. 171, and the soft aching last chapter.
There are very few who work frankly as well as honestly with their autobiographies. Papa CJ proved to be one. Do give this book a go.
If not videos or performing live, have you even seen him in pictures? He always have his chin up with a contagious smile and the book tells you the reason behind. If life is to live intentionally then he has been doing it pretty well, from taking conscious decisions to wearing mistakes on sleeve. He demonstrated the example of owning life courageously.
Not only he got his career built carrying out gigs unceasingly but also kindly constructed Indian comedy scene by laying brick upon brick. I have heard the name, Papa CJ, from myriad of comedians for his generosity.
The book starts with his first ever performed five minute bit comprising punches after punches. There itself you redeem your money to make rest of the book complimentary. I read that bit wondering he has got an innate thing for comedy. Remember when Seinfeld re-performed his first bit?
Lucky for me that Papa CJ did write his special in a book format. I am quite asocial thereby books are my company and he wrote in such conversational style that you’d feel his presence. Moreover, if you’re following his comedy then you’d be listening his voice in your mind with accurate pauses.
I don’t want to give away much but this book is written by a humorous guy about his eventful life containing disparate emotions.
The stories I bookmarked are… his parents marriage, coming of N into his life, Calcutta days, room no. 171, and the soft aching last chapter.
There are very few who work frankly as well as honestly with their autobiographies. Papa CJ proved to be one. Do give this book a go.
March 21, 2020
There is loads in this book that will make you tear up, just laughing. Trust me, even I couldn't move on from one paragraph or line to read the next because I found myself caught in the previous joke, still laughing. I had to reread so many parts because of this! Now you're going to ask me, is it that funny or are you just exaggerating? Well, it's Papa C.J. - in his own words, he comes from the land of the Kamasutra and can fuck you in more ways than you can count. So it IS that hilarious!
Don't believe me, believe yourself when you pick this book to read. Now, apart from all the sarcasm and jokes, I have some tremendous respect for this man from Calcutta. The book talks about his determination and hardships, and his going out of his way to earn the tag of a good human than merely a good stand-up comedian.
It changed my views about stand-up artists in general. This book sure left me in awe and yes, he cracked me up, but he also taught me things that I might have otherwise missed learning from life. Thank you, you humble and honest man!
Will I recommend this book? Yes, I recommend this book before I would recommend others! No second thoughts guys, go treat yourself to this one.
P. S. You might ask, why read when you can watch... Well, to that I'll say "reading is more descriptive, more explicit...more raw. Explicitness isn't permitted always at shows that you want to WATCH". Does reading crack you up more than watching it would, yes I can guarantee you that!
Don't believe me, believe yourself when you pick this book to read. Now, apart from all the sarcasm and jokes, I have some tremendous respect for this man from Calcutta. The book talks about his determination and hardships, and his going out of his way to earn the tag of a good human than merely a good stand-up comedian.
It changed my views about stand-up artists in general. This book sure left me in awe and yes, he cracked me up, but he also taught me things that I might have otherwise missed learning from life. Thank you, you humble and honest man!
Will I recommend this book? Yes, I recommend this book before I would recommend others! No second thoughts guys, go treat yourself to this one.
P. S. You might ask, why read when you can watch... Well, to that I'll say "reading is more descriptive, more explicit...more raw. Explicitness isn't permitted always at shows that you want to WATCH". Does reading crack you up more than watching it would, yes I can guarantee you that!
March 30, 2021
Naked presents a beautiful, soul-touching tale of not just a stand-up comedian but of a humble boy who grew up in the streets of Calcutta and how he found his way through life. There are pages in the book which make you laugh uncontrollably and then there are moments where you keep the book down and find a tear trickle down your cheek. If you have seen Papa CJ's work, you will almost feel as if he is narrating his book to you sitting around a bonfire on a starry night, sharing some amazing stories from his life and the lives of others around him.
The language used by Papa CJ is lucid and makes for a great weekend read. Papa CJ shows conviction and sincerity in every word he writes down. He is brutally honest in many parts like why he chose to write this book and certain uncommon word choices. Just like his shows, with this book he manages to transcend the boundaries of "celebrity" and common public and the reader realizes "Oh, he is just one of us with very similar experiences". This book gives a positive and humorous take on various problems one might face in life and I would urge you to read it especially if you are having a tough time in life.
Through out the book, Papa CJ manages to roast all generations, especially millennials, giving it the feel of a live comedy show. All in all, reading Naked is signing up for a rollercoaster of emotions and smiling hopefully at the end of it.
The language used by Papa CJ is lucid and makes for a great weekend read. Papa CJ shows conviction and sincerity in every word he writes down. He is brutally honest in many parts like why he chose to write this book and certain uncommon word choices. Just like his shows, with this book he manages to transcend the boundaries of "celebrity" and common public and the reader realizes "Oh, he is just one of us with very similar experiences". This book gives a positive and humorous take on various problems one might face in life and I would urge you to read it especially if you are having a tough time in life.
Through out the book, Papa CJ manages to roast all generations, especially millennials, giving it the feel of a live comedy show. All in all, reading Naked is signing up for a rollercoaster of emotions and smiling hopefully at the end of it.
December 22, 2019
Cannot praise this book enough for Papa CJ s ability to convert feelings into words. This book resonated so deeply with me for the way he talked about growing up in Calcutta in the 80s and 90s. The Calcutta friendships which have a familial perennial quality. The simplicity and similarity of all of middle class kids. The highs and the deepest lows of boarding school life and how you think you are king of the world till you realise you are no one or one among many in the cities. The deep rootedness of our relationships with our parents. The great equaliser called life...you win some but you lose so much. The desire to script a different story but still lead a familiar life. More power to people like him who have made their struggles count.
I read two autobiographies this year...Becoming by Michelle Obama and this book. Different levels and scales...but so comparable in the way the books flowed and pulled you into it. The story being of someone famous' ....but feeling like your own. Such a well communicated journey...I can feel his sighs and hear his laughs and feel the pain of unrequited love and the chill of the London roads.
I'm deeply satisfied with this read....and very motivated.
I read two autobiographies this year...Becoming by Michelle Obama and this book. Different levels and scales...but so comparable in the way the books flowed and pulled you into it. The story being of someone famous' ....but feeling like your own. Such a well communicated journey...I can feel his sighs and hear his laughs and feel the pain of unrequited love and the chill of the London roads.
I'm deeply satisfied with this read....and very motivated.
October 16, 2020
I have been following Papa CJ as a comedian and humanitarian for a long time now, but reading his autobiography really gave me a good glimpse of why and how he came to be this incorrigibly charming personality. With such a colourful, and rather uproarious childhood, Papa CJ's story is relentless in its page-turning excitement chapter after chapter, and you won't notice how the years go by in words that capture and enamour the reader into multiverses in the life of this go-getter. From his education at Lawrence School, Sanawar, and Oxford University, to corporate misfit and eventually comedy king. I won't repeat his many (well-deserved) accolades and performances here, you'll read about them all, and the struggle and the hustle quite vividly, but to have bared his soul onto these pages, especially as you reach a rather poignant finale, there is a lot that you will learn and appreciate in this man for whom happiness is a project, and the farther and stronger its reach, the livelier it makes all our lives. Highly recommended.
June 23, 2020
In a world that is increasingly fake, Naked comes to you like a breath of fresh air. A truly honest and heartwarming read, liberally doused with humour, it is the sort of book that stays with you even after you eventually put it down. Baring your soul takes courage, knowing that the world will judge you for the choices you make. Moreover, laughing through it all and making others laugh with you, is an extraordinarily brave art. The openness and acceptance with which Papa CJ tells his story, makes it a winner. Many writers shy away from penning autobiographies, perhaps because it is always easier to dissect a fictional character than oneself. Am sure the self exploration was therapeutic for the author, but so is it for the reader who is inspired to question the unnecessary baggage of ego that one drags through life. Read it not only to know Papa CJ, but also to be inspired to seek to understand yourself...
July 29, 2020
I PUT DOWN THE BOOK SEVERAL TIMES
Sometimes when we see something beautiful, our first tendency is to capture it into the lens of the camera. We are so busy clicking away that we pause to savour those cherished moments.
Well, I was not going to commit the same folly with "Naked." The style of narration was so conversational and vividly expressed that i felt intrinsically woven into the fabric of the content, characters and situations.
The journey was tumultuous, exciting, gripping and interesting to the extent that I found myself putting it down briefly, simply to "soak it in," sometimes in splits of laughter, sometimes in awe, sometimes with a deep sigh, sometimes to pause and reflect, sometimes with a naughty smile and also sometimes with moist eyes, before i picked it up again.
Such power and magic can only emanate from genuine, honest, vulnerable and pure feelings that the author has written with. Because of that, I "felt" it...
What more can I say?
Sonia Mehta
Sometimes when we see something beautiful, our first tendency is to capture it into the lens of the camera. We are so busy clicking away that we pause to savour those cherished moments.
Well, I was not going to commit the same folly with "Naked." The style of narration was so conversational and vividly expressed that i felt intrinsically woven into the fabric of the content, characters and situations.
The journey was tumultuous, exciting, gripping and interesting to the extent that I found myself putting it down briefly, simply to "soak it in," sometimes in splits of laughter, sometimes in awe, sometimes with a deep sigh, sometimes to pause and reflect, sometimes with a naughty smile and also sometimes with moist eyes, before i picked it up again.
Such power and magic can only emanate from genuine, honest, vulnerable and pure feelings that the author has written with. Because of that, I "felt" it...
What more can I say?
Sonia Mehta
September 6, 2020
A very dear friend gifted me this book on my birthday, this is the best gift I could ask for. Papa CJ just takes me along his journey. The whole time I felt like he's holding my hand taking me to different places of his life. From young and rebellious CJ to becoming a very humble and generous man (yes Papa CJ for me is what Russel Peters is to him) this book taught me how important it is to be a Good human being. While reading this book. The main highlight of this book for me is positive thinking. Despite so many setbacks never in this book has Papa CJ stayed with the setback, he's taken every setback in his life positively and made the best out of every situation. This book isn't a one time read you could go back to reading it again and again and if you've seen or heard papa cj you will go along reading this book in his tone! This is a feel good book and I can vouch it won't disappoint it's reader!
September 11, 2021
Simply unputdownable!
I believe it's one of those rare books I get to give a 5/5 star rating to, and one of the reasons is that I never expected a memoir to be so indulging and funny in the first place!
Hilarious, inspiring, painful, touching, and optimistic- all at the same time- I finished Papa CJ's Naked in one sitting! I hardly get to say that about a book, which makes it all the more special. He has literally bared his heart and soul into the book- from his time spent in the simple city of Calcutta, to going on to describe his hostel life in the mountains that left me wishing for an experience just like that; from getting into Oxford for an MBA, to leaving a corporate job to pursue stand-up comedy; from 'bringing the laughs home', to struggling with pain and loss in his personal life- the book had it all!
It was a roller coaster of emotions, and really struck a chord with me! An 'epic' read!
I believe it's one of those rare books I get to give a 5/5 star rating to, and one of the reasons is that I never expected a memoir to be so indulging and funny in the first place!
Hilarious, inspiring, painful, touching, and optimistic- all at the same time- I finished Papa CJ's Naked in one sitting! I hardly get to say that about a book, which makes it all the more special. He has literally bared his heart and soul into the book- from his time spent in the simple city of Calcutta, to going on to describe his hostel life in the mountains that left me wishing for an experience just like that; from getting into Oxford for an MBA, to leaving a corporate job to pursue stand-up comedy; from 'bringing the laughs home', to struggling with pain and loss in his personal life- the book had it all!
It was a roller coaster of emotions, and really struck a chord with me! An 'epic' read!
July 17, 2020
An adorable peek into the struggles and wins of Papa CJ ! This one pulls all the strings in your heart and stretches every muscle in your face. :)
Some books in your collection do stand out and Naked is definitely one of them. A highly recommended memoir of arguably one of the best comedians in India. The book takes you back to your boyhood days and plunges you to the daily struggles that a middle class boy with a growing dream faces, slowly unraveling some of the best kept secrets from the authors' illustrious life.
It definitely belongs to the league where after finishing the book you really want to recommend it to a friend just so you can discuss the best parts because the thing about this book is that it stays with you long after you have finished reading the final page.
The last few lines of the book are just too heartwarming.. read it to believe it.
Some books in your collection do stand out and Naked is definitely one of them. A highly recommended memoir of arguably one of the best comedians in India. The book takes you back to your boyhood days and plunges you to the daily struggles that a middle class boy with a growing dream faces, slowly unraveling some of the best kept secrets from the authors' illustrious life.
It definitely belongs to the league where after finishing the book you really want to recommend it to a friend just so you can discuss the best parts because the thing about this book is that it stays with you long after you have finished reading the final page.
The last few lines of the book are just too heartwarming.. read it to believe it.
August 18, 2020
My bed side table is full of books that I've started reading but given up half way. When I started reading Naked by Papa CJ, I surprised myself by completing it in one go. The book was simply unputdownable. The life journey of Papa CJ written in his inimitable style - part sentimental and thought provoking, part hilarious and wacky, mixed with his famous one liners - made for an engrossing read. Curiosity about, and what happens next, kept me hooked and turning the pages. This is despite the fact the I had watched the show Naked and remembered it in great detail. While reading the book, there are times when you recall how a particular joke sounded on stage and that just makes the joke more endearing.
Read this book for the story. Read it for laughs. Read it for inspiration. And the message that you need to work really really hard to acheive success.
Read this book for the story. Read it for laughs. Read it for inspiration. And the message that you need to work really really hard to acheive success.
March 1, 2020
Anyone who lived in middle class India in the 1970-1990 will relate to many of Papa CJs stories and anecdotes. It’s a very candid autobiography, about how he went to the UK to study at Oxford for his MBA and then his decision after working for a few years to throw it all aside and become a comedian. Many things struck chord - growing up in the 1980s, Templeton College where I did an executive program etc. It’s an easy read which will make you laugh and also appreciate the serious side of the story. I have been following Papa CJ for some years now on social media, so some of this was not new. But the entire story was certainly engrossing.
I saw it at the Delhi airport book store and glad I picked it up.
I saw it at the Delhi airport book store and glad I picked it up.
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